Legal Question in Construction Law in California

unlicensed contractor

my mom snd I hired a friend to prep snd psint our house for $400, and he agreed. He did a horrible job and caused about $900 worth of damage to our house and landscaping, so we just paid him the $400 and told him to go away. But now he's suiing us for $1000 more saying thats what we said we'd pay him. He's unlicenced, so can he legally ask for more money? Any help would be fantastic!!!!


Asked on 12/15/07, 1:47 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Steven Ostrove Law Offices of Steven Ostrove

Re: unlicensed contractor

A license is required for any work performed in excess of $500. Therefore, he cannot legally ask for any more money. In fact, you can go after him for any money paid to him.

Because of the amount of damages you may proceed in the small claims court.

I hope this helps!

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Answered on 12/17/07, 1:29 pm
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: unlicensed contractor

The limit on unlicensed work is $500. When the friend only wanted $400 for the job, he was legal. By asking for more, he has made the whole job illegal for him, both the first $400 contract and the demand for additional money. You don't have to pay him a thing; he is a lawbreaker.

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Answered on 12/16/07, 5:32 pm


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